New Delhi, August 16, 2026: What starts with a single step can become a journey of transformation. That is the central message of ‘The Man Who Runs’ , the debut book by long-distance runner and author Anshuman Thakur, which was launched in New Delhi today.
The book chronicles Thakur’s personal journey from taking up running to becoming a committed long-distance runner who has completed seven marathons, with a personal best of 3 hours and 22 minutes, and is now working towards qualifying for the Boston Marathon.
Far more than a book about running,’ The Man Who Runs’ explores the discipline, setbacks, self-doubt, resilience and determination that accompany any meaningful journey. Through his experiences, Thakur examines how running can transform not only the body, but also one’s mindset, priorities, relationships and understanding of oneself.
At the heart of the book is a simple idea: the hardest part of any marathon is often deciding to start. The story captures the challenge of continuing when motivation fades, overcoming physical and mental barriers, and discovering the strength to keep moving forward when the finish line appears distant.
The book launch brought together runners, sports enthusiasts, friends, family and well-wishers to celebrate Thakur’s journey and the larger message of perseverance that runs through the book.
The occasion also featured a conversation on running, resilience, discipline, fitness and professional excellence, with three distinguished Guests of Honour representing medicine and sport, and the legal profession
The Man Who Runs Is Not Really About Running a Marathon” Speaking about the book, Anshuman Thakur said “It is about the journey of becoming someone who believes he can. Every run, every setback and every finish line taught me something about perseverance and about myself.”
Thakur believes that the lessons of running extend well beyond the race course. The discipline required to wake up for an early morning run, the ability to continue despite discomfort and the patience to improve one kilometre at a time are lessons that can be applied to almost every aspect of life.
“The book the he Man Who Runs is aimed not only at experienced runners but also at people who have never considered themselves runners. The book makes the case that one does not need exceptional fitness, extraordinary talent or a clear finish line to begin.” Said the author
Anshuman Thakur is a Customer Success Director at HCL Software, where he works with enterprise leaders on improving the adoption of AI and related software. He has been a long-distance runner for close to a decade and has completed seven marathons, recording a personal best of 3 hours and 22 minutes. He is currently working towards qualifying for the Boston Marathon.
Three Distinguished Guests of Honour included Dr. Rajeev Verma, Head of Department, Joint Replacement & Orthopaedics at Manipal Hospitals, Dwarka, Mr Bimlendra Jha former MD Jindal steel and Power Ltd and Manish Kumar Jha, Senior Advocate designated by the Delhi High Court.
Dr. Verma speaking on the occasion said “Running teaches us that resilience is built gradually. As a doctor and a runner, I have seen how consistency, patience and respect for the body can take a person much further than they initially imagine. Anshuman’s journey is a wonderful reminder that endurance is not just about physical strength; it is also about developing the discipline to keep going.”
Mr Bimlendra Jha said “Sport has the power to change how people see themselves and what they believe is possible. Anshuman’s story captures that transformation beautifully. What begins as a personal commitment to run can become a lesson in discipline, perseverance and the confidence to keep challenging yourself.”
Manish Kumar Jha, said Anshuman’s journey demonstrates that meaningful achievement is rarely the result of one extraordinary moment; it is built through countless ordinary efforts repeated over time.”
One simply needs to begin.The growing popularity of running and endurance sports in India has created communities around fitness, wellbeing and personal achievement. Against this backdrop, Thakur’s story offers a deeply personal account of how running can become a vehicle for self-discovery and transformation.
Ultimately, The Man Who Runs is a celebration of the human capacity to start again, push through setbacks and keep moving forward—one step, one kilometre and one finish line at a time.
